Determination of the Geotechnical Properties of Soil in Ogua, Ovia North East Local Government Area, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria

This study focuses on investigating the engineering properties of soil in the specific location at Ogua, Ovia North-East Local Government Area, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. The test are conducted on soil samples from two different depths (1m, 1.5m, and 2m) at points labelled A and B. The investigation encompasses a comprehensive Sieve Analysis, Atterberg Limits, Specific Gravity, Moisture Content, Compaction Tests, and Triaxial Tests. The Sieve Analysis results classified the soil primarily as Poorly Graded Clayey Sand (SC), revealing a significant sand fraction and accompanying clay content, which influences both drainage and moisture retention capabilities.
The methodology section meticulously details the location of the study, encompassing procedures for soil sample collection, storage, and the range of laboratory tests conducted.
The Atterberg Limits indicated moderate plasticity with Liquid Limits ranging from 22% to 25% and Plastic Limits from 13.34% to 15.27%, suggesting the potential for volumetric change with moisture variations. Specific Gravity values varied from 2.29 to 2.56, indicating a balanced composition conducive for stability and compaction. Moisture content assessments revealed that the soil was moderately moist (12%-14%).
Compaction tests demonstrated maximum dry densities between 1.67 g/cm³ to 1.84 g/cm³, while further load tests highlighted compression behaviours typical of clayey soils, with Point B exhibiting higher compressibility and settlement under increased loads. The Triaxial and consolidation tests underscored the cohesive nature of the soil, particularly at Point B, which showed significant settlement under applied loads.